Party Chef Needed in Australia [VISA SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE]

Party Chef Needed in Australia

The Royal Mail Hotel, established in 1855, is a historic landmark situated in Dunkeld, Victoria, at the southern end of the Grampians National Park. Originally serving as a bluestone inn, it has evolved into a premier destination known for its exceptional hospitality and culinary excellence. The hotel’s transformation began in the 1980s when a local Dunkeld family acquired the property and, along with their surrounding farmland, developed it into one of Victoria’s most celebrated regional escapes.

Today, the Royal Mail Hotel is renowned for its two acclaimed restaurants: Parker Street Project and the two-hatted Wickens at the Royal Mail Hotel.

The hotel’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its 1.2-hectare kitchen garden which supplies fresh produce daily and its on-site farms that provide lamb and beef for the restaurants. Additionally, the hotel boasts a multi-award-winning wine cellar housing approximately 26,000 bottles including the largest private collection of Bordeaux and Burgundy wines in the Southern Hemisphere.

Beyond its culinary offerings, the Royal Mail Hotel is dedicated to environmental conservation. It operates a conservation program focused on native animal breeding and maintains native gardens that reflect the natural beauty of the Grampians region.

The hotel’s philosophy emphasizes enriching the experiences of guests, the community and the environment, making it a distinguished establishment in Australia’s hospitality industry.

• Position: Chefs/Cooks (Hospitality & Tourism)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Salary: $73,150 – $80,000 per year
• Date Posted: 22 days ago

Located in the serene southern Grampians town of Dunkeld, approximately three hours from Melbourne, the Royal Mail Hotel is a prestigious, award-winning establishment.

Our mission is to assemble a dedicated and proficient team committed to providing meaningful and accessible experiences that enrich the lives of our guests, our community and the surrounding environment.

Our unique hotel offers:

• Two Exceptional Dining Options:
• Parker Street Project
• Wickens at the Royal Mail (2-Hatted Restaurant)
• Award-Winning Cellar: Housing a collection of 26,000 bottles.
• Extensive Kitchen Garden: Our 1.2-hectare garden supplies fresh produce daily.
• On-Site Farms: Providing premium lamb and beef for our menu.
• Conservation Programs: Focused on native animal breeding and preservation.
• Native Gardens: Complementing the natural beauty of our location.

We aim to create more than just a job for our team members; we seek motivated, skilled and enthusiastic Commis Chefs and Chef de Parties who are eager to grow within our renowned team.

About the Role

This unique role, under the guidance of Executive Chef Robin Wickens, invites you to join a dedicated kitchen team, delivering excellence in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

The menu is crafted with a strong focus on sustainability and seasonality, with a philosophy centered on using only what we can cultivate ourselves.

As part of our team, you will:

• Work with Seasonal Ingredients: Harvest produce directly from our kitchen garden, enhancing your understanding of seasonality and sustainability.
• Regular Roster: Work a fortnightly schedule at the Parker Street Project, from Wednesday to Saturday, with a 3-day weekend (Sunday to Tuesday).
• Ownership and Responsibility: Take charge of your designated kitchen section, ensuring all dishes adhere to our high standards while supporting other sections and mentoring junior team members.
• Experience True Paddock-to-Plate Dining: Embrace the philosophy of sustainable sourcing and fine dining.
• Gain Diverse Culinary Exposure: Rotate through various sections and kitchens, gaining experience not commonly available in the industry.
• Competitive Compensation: Benefit from paid overtime opportunities within a structured 4-day work week.

Requirements

To succeed in this role, we seek candidates who possess:

• Culinary Certification: A qualification in Commercial Cookery or equivalent industry experience.
• Driving Capability: A driver’s license and reliable vehicle are advantageous but not mandatory.
• Fine Dining Experience: Previous experience in fine dining establishments is preferred.
• Leadership Skills: Proven ability to guide and inspire team members.
• Strong English Proficiency: Excellent communication skills in English.

What We Offer

By joining our team, you’ll benefit from:

• Welcoming Atmosphere: Join a supportive team where collaboration and respect are paramount.
• Competitive Salary: Remuneration based on experience and skills.
• Lifestyle Change: Escape city congestion and embrace a quieter, nature-filled environment.
• Exposure to Culinary Techniques: Develop your craft through a variety of cooking methods.
• Career Advancement: This role provides an invaluable, career-defining experience.
• Inclusive Environment: Your ideas and contributions are valued and implemented.
• Proximity to Nature: Enjoy the breathtaking Grampians National Park at your doorstep.
• Accommodation Assistance: Housing options, both short-term and long-term, are available to facilitate your transition.
• Generous Discounts: Staff discounts across the property.

Remuneration

The role offers a salary package ranging between $73,150 – $80,000+ per annum, depending on your skills and experience.

Accommodation

Dunkeld, a charming regional town with around 1,000 residents, offers a peaceful, community-oriented lifestyle. The town which was a finalist in Victoria’s Top Small-Town Awards in 2021, is known for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere and beautiful landscapes including the popular Dunkeld arboretum.

Housing options are available to meet various needs, from shared accommodations to family homes, both furnished and unfurnished. Living close to the hotel means you can say goodbye to the daily commute and enjoy more leisure time.

Our Environmental Ethos

We are deeply committed to environmental stewardship, understanding its importance to our guests, our team and the community. Sustainability initiatives are integral to our operation and we encourage interested team members to join our sustainability action group to drive meaningful change.

Additional Information

As an accredited sponsor, we welcome applications from qualified individuals in Australia seeking visa sponsorship. Additionally, the Royal Mail Hotel is part of Dunkeld Pastoral Co Pty Ltd, a larger family-owned business.

We invite applications from couples and families considering a move to Dunkeld with potential work opportunities available for partners.

How to Apply

We would love to hear from you! To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume through SEEK or via email at hr@royalmail.com.au.

Employer Questions

As part of your application, you’ll be asked the following questions:

• Are you available to work on a rotating roster?
• Which statement best describes your right to work in Australia?
• Do you have experience working as a chef in a fine-dining restaurant?
• How many years of experience do you have as a chef de partie?
• What culinary arts qualifications have you obtained?
• Have you worked in a role requiring a sound knowledge of food provenance?

This opportunity is designed for individuals passionate about fine dining, sustainability and career growth.

Here are 10 FAQs for the Royal Mail Hotel

What is the history of the Royal Mail Hotel?

The Royal Mail Hotel was established in 1855 as a small inn in Dunkeld, Victoria. Over the years, it has transformed into a premier regional hotel, famous for its fine dining and environmental initiatives.

Who owns the Royal Mail Hotel?

The hotel is family-owned, managed by the Dunkeld Pastoral Company Pty Ltd which also oversees the hotel’s farms and conservation programs.

What dining options are available at the hotel?

The hotel features two renowned restaurants: Parker Street Project, known for casual dining and Wickens at the Royal Mail, a two-hatted restaurant offering fine dining.

Does the hotel have any environmental or sustainability programs?

Yes, the hotel has a strong commitment to sustainability, with a 1.2-hectare kitchen garden, on-site farms for lamb and beef and a conservation program focused on native animal breeding.

What is the wine collection like at the Royal Mail Hotel?

The Royal Mail Hotel’s cellar houses around 26,000 bottles including one of the largest collections of Bordeaux and Burgundy wines in the Southern Hemisphere.

Is accommodation available for employees?

Yes, the hotel offers various accommodation options for employees, from shared houses to family homes which are close to the hotel.

What types of roles are available at the Royal Mail Hotel?

The hotel hires for various hospitality roles including chefs, kitchen staff and front-of-house positions, with opportunities to grow within the organization.

Does the hotel provide visa sponsorship for international workers?

Yes, as an accredited sponsor, the Royal Mail Hotel accepts applications from qualified candidates within Australia seeking visa sponsorship.

What is the surrounding area like?

Dunkeld is a picturesque town located at the foot of the Grampians, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The area offers hiking trails, native gardens and a close-knit community.

How can I apply for a job at the Royal Mail Hotel?

Interested candidates can apply by submitting a cover letter and resume via SEEK or by emailing the HR department at hr@royalmail.com.au.